Blog

The Mourne Gullion Strangford area offers a fantastic selection of local breweries and distilleries for visitors to explore. Give the gift of an experience to someone special this year, like a tour of one of the fasinating distilleries and breweries in our area.

The Heritage Walks Festival is a range of walks providing a great opportunity to connect with local heritage and environment in the Downpatrick area between Monday 9 and Sunday 15 June 

Everyone knows that the Mourne Gullion Strangford area is really just one giant adventure park. There are surely few better places on earth for outdoor fun and your kids are sure to love it here. Should it rain, and that can happen on occasion in these parts, there are plenty of budget-friendly things to do indoors too.

It's that time of the year when it’s good to get out, get some fresh air around you and explore the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion and all its natural beauty. Whether you want to visit a forest park, hike a mountain or do an activity, our region is abundant in outdoor happenings.  There is plenty to see and do and lots for you to participate in to ensure a memorable experience.

Mourne Gullion Strangford is full of talented craftspeople and local producers of food and drink. Plan your perfect day out and make the trip to experience local crafts, produce and culture by attending all our region’s brilliant artisan markets and meet the local craftspeople and artisans yourself. It is a wonderful way to support small businesses and a splendid day out for you and all the family.

Are you ready to dive into an exhilarating experience? Brace yourself for the ultimate wild swimming adventure in the beautiful surroundings of Mourne Gullion Strangford. Picture this: crystal-clear waters, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, and a sense of freedom like no other. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or a curious beginner, Mourne Gullion Strangford offers a plethora of stunning spots to explore.

Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark has a wealth of attractions and things to do.  Explore the area and delve into the culture, folklore and legends.

The Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion is located in a region where we have three designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  It is one of the richest areas for hiking in Northern Ireland.  Whether you are a hiking expert or a beginner, we have plenty of trails suitable for all levels of ability. Whichever trail you decide to conquer will provide you with fabulous views of spectacular scenery and fill you with a sense of achievement.

For families who love the outdoors, Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion is among the best places to explore. With fresh air, peaceful trails and stunning natural beauty, it’s the perfect setting for mountain walks, forest adventures and unforgettable family days out.

The Cuan Restaurant & Hotel has been included in The Irish Independent’s FAB 50 – Ireland’s Best Places to Stay 2025

There’s nothing quite like a springtime ramble through Castlewellan Forest Park, especially when you’ve got a curious border collie like Finn leading the way, nose to the ground and tail in the air. We set out on a bright morning, keen to stretch our legs and take in some of the fresh Mourne Mountain air – and Castlewellan didn’t disappoint.

As part of the Castlewellan Historic Demesne project, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, signage across Castlewellan Forest Park is being updated. A key focus is replacing the panoramic panel at the Peace Maze with a fresh, high-quality image of the Mourne Mountains.

We’re inviting photographers to submit high-resolution images (minimum of 300 dpi) from this viewpoint by Wednesday 30 April 2025. The selected photo will be credited and featured at the heart of the Peace Maze.